News Release
For Immediate Release

 

Saanich, BC – The Great British Columbia ShakeOut is only two weeks away. As we lead up to this province-wide earthquake drill, Saanich is encouraging residents to focus on workplace preparedness.  

“ShakeOut is a great reminder for Saanich staff and residents to think about how to prepare for an earthquake that may occur during work hours,” said Frank Macdonald, Deputy Fire Chief. “Drop, cover and hold on is the appropriate protective measure during an earthquake, but you need to also consider your immediate actions after the event. Being prepared can help you and your family feel less stressed and reduces confusion.” 

Tips for personal workplace preparedness:

• Discuss a number of scenarios with your family and make a plan for each.
• Determine a meeting place for your family and establish a communication plan.  
• Store seasonal clothing and footwear at work.
• Make a plan to get home from work if roads are closed to traffic.
• Have essential items at work such a medications, glasses and contact information. 

As part of the ShakeOut drill on October 19, 2017, Saanich staff will practice ‘drop cover and hold on’ along with over 1 million other British Columbians at 10:19 a.m. Whether at home or at work – residents are encouraged to be prepared, have a plan and make a kit.  

Quick Facts:

• The District of Saanich showcases its emergency notification page on Saanich.ca twice per year: on ShakeOut Day this year on October 19 and during Emergency Preparedness Week in May.
• The page is enabled in the event of an emergency and provides residents with important information when accessing any Saanich web page.
• Check out our emergency notification page demonstration on www.saanich.ca as part of ShakeOut on October 19. 

Learn More: 

• For more information or to register for ShakeOut BC, please visit: shakeoutbc.ca  
• To view the emergency notification page during ShakeOut BC, please visit: saanich.ca  
• To learn more about emergency preparedness, presentations or volunteering with the Saanich Emergency Program, contact 250-475-7140. 

Social Media Channels:  

• Follow Saanich Fire on Twitter: @SaanichFire
• Follow Saanich Emergency Program on Twitter: @SaanichEP

  

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Media Contact:

Frank Macdonald, Deputy Fire Chief
Saanich Fire Department 250-475-5503